Shahnameh Quest

Arsalan retells how Fereydoun reaches Zahhak the Serpent King’s dark fortress, liberates Jamshid’s imprisoned sisters, and sparks the long-awaited showdown between the forces of good and evil.

Arsalan explores how the early myths of the Shahnameh evolve from a supernatural battle between good and evil into a more nuanced, human-driven drama of moral choice.

Arsalan retells the story of Kaveh the Blacksmith, who bravely defied Zahhak the Serpent King and sparked the peoples' rebellion toward freedom and justice under Fereydoun's grace and leadership. 

Arsalan retells the story of Fereydoun’s narrow escape from Zahhak’s army, and his years in hiding—nourished by the milk of the sacred cow Barmayeh.

Arsalan retells the evil reign of Zahhak the Serpent King, and how  ominous nightmare shakes him to his core, foreshadowing his downfall. 

Arsalan retells how Zahhak — once a noble Arabian prince — is possessed by Iblis the Devil and transformed into the evil Serpent King.

Arsalan retells the story of King Jamshid, whose glory led the world to its greatest heights and inspired the first Nowruz—until his pride invited God's punishment.

Arsalan explores how Ferdowsi’s world-building lays the foundation for the Shahnameh’s rich moral complexity and the narrative dilemmas that shape the epic.

Arsalan retells the legend of King Tahmures, the magician king who bound Ahriman’s Dīv army and brought dazzling innovations to industry and the arts.

Arsalan retells how King Hushang laid the foundations of civilization and discovered fire, inspiring the ancient Feast of Sadeh.

Arsalan retells the birth of King Kayumars's court and the tragic death of Prince Siyamak at the hands of Ahriman's son, The Black Div. 

Arsalan summarizes Ferdowsi’s introduction to the epic, where he praises God and the Prophet Muhammad and recounts the origins and patronage of the Shahnameh project.

Arsalan Akhavan welcomes listeners by sharing how he came to learn about the Shahnameh and its significance to Persian language and culture.